Pep Guardiola says Manchester City's under-18s have won their national title by showing a mix of mental strength and technical style, as the youth team beat Southampton on Thursday to be crowned U18 Premier League national champions for the third season running.
City's youngsters fell behind at Southampton, with the winners of the Northern and Southern divisions facing each other for a national final to determine who takes the overall crown of champions. City have achieved that accolade for the last two seasons and made it three-in-a-row with a hard-fought comeback at St Mary's.
Tai Sodje and Dire Mebude scored the goals to give City a 2-1 lead, which was successfully defended in the second half, and Guardiola was quick to praise the Blues at full time.
ALSO READ: Borges and Mebude show Man City how to win title as U18s seal historic trophy
Praising City's mentality, consistency and style, Guardiola said: “What our under-18s have achieved again this season is remarkable. Winning their league once was exceptional – to defend it 12 months later says everything about their mentality and consistency.
“But what is most impressive is their style. They win by playing the game the right way and for young players, there is no better education than this.
“The league is the ultimate test. You have to play so many games – home and away against every team – and whoever is there on top at the end of the season is the best team and deserves to be champions. I want to say a huge congratulations to Ben [Wilkinson, head coach], his staff and all the players. Enjoy this moment - you deserve to celebrate!”
The title win means City have won the national titles at under-23 and under-18 level this season - just as they did last year - as well as picking up the U16 and U17 Premier League Cups.
Academy Director Jason Wilcox said: “To win the under-18 Premier League National title for a third season in a row is the perfect way to complete another outstanding season for our academy.
“Not only has the team executed the brand of football that we want to see here at Manchester City, but they have also shown the character and commitment required to win this title three times in a row, an unprecedented achievement in itself.
“The players, coaches and every single member of staff who works to deliver this success should be incredibly proud of themselves in what has been another memorable year for us all.”
Sign up to our City newsletter so you never miss an update from the Etihad Stadium this season.
